Prokaryotic cell is characterized by

Options

A. Presence of nucleus, mitochondria and plastids
B. Absence of heterotrophie mode of nutrition
C. Presence of chitinous cell wall
D. Absence of nuclear membrane

Answer

To determine the characteristics of a prokaryotic cell, we can analyze the given options step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Prokaryotic Cells**: Prokaryotic cells are defined as cells that lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They are generally smaller and simpler than eukaryotic cells.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A**: Presence of nucleus, mitochondria, and plastids.
- Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and plastids. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

- **Option B**: Absence of heterotrophic mode of nutrition.
- Prokaryotic cells can be autotrophic (like cyanobacteria) or heterotrophic (like many bacteria). Thus, this statement is misleading and incorrect.

- **Option C**: Presence of chitinous cell wall.
- Chitinous cell walls are characteristic of fungi, not prokaryotes. Prokaryotic cell walls are typically made of peptidoglycan (in bacteria). Therefore, this option is also incorrect.

- **Option D**: Absence of nuclear membrane.
- Prokaryotic cells do not have a nuclear membrane; their genetic material is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane. This statement is correct.

3. **Conclusion**: The characteristic that defines prokaryotic cells is the absence of a nuclear membrane.

### Final Answer:
The prokaryotic cell is characterized by the **absence of nuclear membrane**.

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